Asthma is a common condition that affects millions of people all over the world. Some people suffer from severe asthma but others may have milder forms of this disease. In either case, asthma is a serious condition that has to be treated properly and promptly to ensure that the patient lives a normal life.
Asthma is an inflammation of the airways that transport air in and out of the lungs. It is caused by certain triggering factors that lead to swelling of the airway walls. This swelling eventually blocks the passage of air to the lungs causing breathing difficulties.
The most common symptoms of asthma are coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, excessive chest pain, and nasal congestion. However, asthma can also result in a decrease in the number of breaths per minute. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and are often mistaken for those of allergies or colds.
There are several appropriate ways to treat asthma. These include the use of inhalers that help increase the flow of air into the lungs; using medicines for short-term relief; improving diet and exercise; quitting smoking; and checking the patient’s reaction to drugs. The methods discussed here are not just quick fixes. For mild cases of asthma, asthma medications can be used. For more severe cases, a combination of treatment methods is used to ensure that the patient stay symptom-free. Treatment consists of reducing the asthma triggers that can cause the disease. Reducing these triggers leads to better airflow in the lungs and therefore reduces symptoms.
Antihistamines are usually prescribed for asthma. They are effective when used as a treatment for symptoms such as cough and shortness of breath. Over-the-counter and prescription treatments are available, and they are only recommended for short term use.
Physicians may also recommend physical therapy and counseling to teach the patient how to identify asthma triggers. Asthma patients may also need to follow some dietary habits to ensure that they do not suffer from this condition. People who are allergic to foods like eggs, shellfish, soy, wheat, and rye may need to restrict their intake of these food items.
A more drastic method of treating asthma is the use of inhaled steroids. For many asthma patients, the inhaler and steroid combination is the best way to treat their condition. While steroids are safe to use for a short period of time, their long-term effects can be harmful.
Other lifestyle changes that can be made include the avoidance of smoking, reducing caffeine consumption, and avoiding other foods that cause allergies. Asthma patients must also avoid overexertion of the body. Working, playing, sleeping, and going about everyday activities should be limited or eliminated.
Exercise should be included in patients’ daily routine to prevent asthmatic attacks. People with severe asthma should avoid hot and cold weather conditions. Getting regular exercise helps keep the lungs healthy.
Natural treatments are also available for treating asthma. Patients should consult their doctor to find out if they are suitable for their condition.
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